BOILING SPRINGS – Gardner-Webb football resumed work on the lower grass practice fields Wednesday morning, grinding through a high intensity workout on the ninth day of training camp.

The team was back in shells on Wednesday and the lighter gear allowed a break on a much more steamy day from a weather perspective. The nearly three-hour practice allowed the coaching staff to make corrections from Tuesday's first full scrimmage, with finishing plays and drives an emphasis on both sides of the ball.

Special teams work focused on punting and punt coverage, with three punters working on directional kicking and improving hang time. In addition to Devin Baldwin (6-2, 202, Fr.) and Jack Pawloski (6-0, 190, Gr.), two-way kicker Austin McKay (5-11, 169, Fr.) took his reps punting on Wednesday.

Team periods focused on inside run, pressure and red zone for much of the action. The GWU defense forced four turnovers on the day, including one in the end zone during red zone drills – with safety Jamari Jenkins (5-11, 198, Fr.) pouncing on a fumble to end the day.

Gardner-Webb will get back into full pads on Thursday for another morning session on the lower fields.

CAMP NOTES
* After catching just four balls for 28 yards as a true freshman in 2018, it may seem hard at first glance to consider receiver Izaiah Gathings (6-4, 216, So.) a strong candidate for All-Big South honors. The Statesville, N.C., native is making his case during training camp. Gathings may be the most improved player on the field offensively for the Runnin' Bulldogs, and has matured into a reliable option down the field and in traffic. He size, length and athleticism are rare. If he winds up on the All-Big South team at any point during his career, he will be the second man in his family to do so. His father, Danny Gathings, was the 2004 Big South Men's Basketball Player of the Year at High Point.

* Gardner-Webb's defensive line depth has been harped upon during the preseason and there isn't a considerable drop off when the Runnin' Bulldogs rotate at any of the three positions up front. The first group of John Singleton (6-5, 237, R-So.), Josh Ramseur (5-11, 292, Gr.) and Janathian Turner (6-3, 307, So.) may be the best collection since the 2013 front trio that each earned first-team All-Big South honors.

* Converted receiver Kobe Rodgers (6-1, 189, R-Jr.) made a diving interception from his strong safety spot during team period and the former Gaffney (S.C.) High standout continues to work with the starting unit heading into the 2019 season.

* Tight end A.J. Alexander (6-3, 255, Gr.) provides the Gardner-Webb offense with a unique skillset. GWU has seen its tight ends earn 10 All-Big South Conference selections since 2002 – including five since 2012 – but most of those standouts were known primarily for their pass catching ability. Alexander is also blessed with great hands, but his power and skill as a blocker is a game changer. The Burke, Va., native opened holes for several long, productive runs on Wednesday.